Screens are everywhere in modern life, and children are engaging with technology earlier than ever before. From interactive learning apps to video calls with grandparents, digital devices are woven into childhood. The challenge for parents isn’t whether children will use technology, but how to guide them in healthy, age-appropriate ways.

Australian research and expert recommendations suggest that technology can support learning and connection when used thoughtfully, but boundaries and balance are key. For young children, especially under age five, development is still driven by hands-on exploration, physical play, and face-to-face interaction. Technology should supplement—not replace—these activities. Here’s how parents and caregivers can navigate technology in young children.

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What the Research Says

The Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) highlights that digital technology has both opportunities and risks. Quality screen experiences can aid literacy, numeracy, and communication skills, but overuse can impact sleep, physical activity, and social development.

This is particularly important given current usage patterns. A 2022–23 Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) survey found that 89% of children aged 5–14 use a screen-based device for entertainment daily, averaging more than two hours per day outside schoolwork. For preschoolers, AIFS reports that children aged 2–5 are already averaging up to 2.5 hours of screen time daily, more than double the one-hour guideline. These figures highlight the need for thoughtful approaches to screen use from the earliest years.

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Guidelines for Screen Time in Australia

Australia’s Department of Health and Aged Care offers recommendations that align with global standards:

• Under 2 years: Children should not spend time watching TV or using other electronic media. Video calls with family and friends are the exception.
• Ages 2–5: Limit screen time to no more than one hour per day, with high-quality content.
• Ages 5–17: Limit recreational screen time to no more than two hours per day, not including schoolwork.

Choosing the Right Content

Not all screen time is created equal. Iinteractive, educational, and slow-paced media is more beneficial than passive, fast-paced entertainment. When choosing digital content for young children, look for:

• Programs developed in consultation with educators.
• Apps or games that encourage creativity, problem-solving, or active participation.
• Content without aggressive advertising or in-app purchases.

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The Importance of Shared Use

Experts agree that children learn more from technology when parents are actively involved. Co-viewing or co-playing allows parents to explain concepts, answer questions, and connect digital experiences to real-world learning.

For example, watching a documentary about the Great Barrier Reef can spark conversations about Australia’s environment, or using a drawing app together can inspire offline art activities. The key is engagement—not just supervision.

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Balancing Technology with Offline Experiences

Healthy technology use in children is all about balance. Some practical strategies include:

• Device-free zones: Keep bedrooms and mealtimes screen-free to encourage rest and family connection.
• Outdoor play: Prioritise active play—Australian guidelines recommend at least three hours of physical activity per day for preschoolers.
• Role modeling: Children mirror adult behaviours. Parents who put away their phones during family time show kids how to use devices mindfully.
• Family media plans: Set clear rules about screen time, content, and tech-free times.

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Final Thoughts

Technology is part of childhood in Australia, but research and expert advice make it clear that boundaries, balance, and active parental involvement are essential. The goal isn’t to avoid technology, but to make it work for families in ways that support learning, connection, and well-being.

By focusing on quality content, sharing digital experiences, and protecting time for physical play and rest, parents can help children build a positive relationship with technology. Given that most Australian children are already spending more time on screens than guidelines recommend, thoughtful strategies are more important than ever for ensuring that technology enhances rather than hinders healthy development.